Port 2 planning building improvements

Commissioners of Port District 2 worked over plans for upgrading facilities when they met Tuesday evening.

The port has purchased the former Skamokawa United Methodist Church Building, now named the Carlton Appelo Center, and is in the process of making improvements so that it can host a variety of uses.

Commissioners approved a $27,384 bid from Felton Electric to replace the heating system with two heat pumps. They would replace baseboard heaters and a propane furnace.

Commissioners and staff also discussed roof repair and decided to wait to their August meeting to act on a bid for work. They have one bid but have decided to consider adding insulation to the project.

To finance the project, the port will consult with Wahkiakum County about a low interest loan.

Port staff want to move their office from a park model to the center; the park model could then be rented to Skamokawa Vista Park patrons.

New Port Manager Samuel Shogren reviewed his first month on the job, which included getting to know the staff and community, studying funding grant opportunities, and preparing a report of goals and opportunities that could be addressed.

The commission should consider updating its comprehensive plan, he added, for the port has sold land and purchased new facilities that aren't addressed in the plan.